Gain cutting-edge expertise with our Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). Through flexible electives aligned with your career goals, or two optional areas of specialization in data science or software engineering, the MSCS prepares you to excel in today’s fiercely competitive tech industry.
Seattle University’s Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program offers a curriculum based on theoretical foundations and practical applications. The curriculum includes advanced courses in core areas of computer science and flexible electives that align with your professional goals.
Seattle University has long been a leader in computer science and software engineering education. We established our pioneering Master of Software Engineering program in 1979 and awarded the world’s first MSE degree in 1982. Our curriculum has been shaped by close contact with local industry professionals, ensuring that courses are relevant to the workplace and that projects are tailored to the professional needs of our students.
As the Puget Sound region developed into one of the world’s leading technology hubs, our faculty developed connections with industry leaders to ensure SU students remain competitive in the job market. Today, computer science is the fastest-growing program on our campus, and our graduate students are employed by major tech brands such as Microsoft, Meta, Google and others.
Learn more about how this graduate degree from the Department of Computer Science will contribute to your career goals. Below you can explore the program variants and decide which path is the best fit for you. See for yourself how impactful a Seattle University degree can be.
In the general option, you get to choose your electives. You can develop a focused or broad foundation that aligns with your interests and academic goals. There are two variations of the MSCS general option:
If you chose to participate in research project opportunities, you’ll have a chance to be mentored by faculty, publish your work, and present on campus or at conferences. These projects provide distinctive opportunities to gain hands-on research experience and prepare you for career advancement or for further post-graduate education at internationally recognized institutions.
Sample Plan for MSCS – General Option
The MSCS with a specialization in data science (MSCS-DS) provides you the opportunity to develop computer solutions related to data science. Our unique program is designed so that upon completion, you’ll receive both an MSCS degree and a specialization within data science.
This combination is very attractive to today’s leading employers as there’s growing demand for developers that have experience in data science. As a student in this specialization, you must complete the set of core courses that are part of all MSCS degrees at Seattle University, plus a set of data science courses. The program culminates in a capstone project that addresses real-world challenges in the field of data science.
The specialization can be completed in as little as five academic quarters, only if you start in the fall quarter. Due to course sequencing, if you start in the winter quarter you can complete the program in seven academic quarters, and if you start in the spring quarter you can complete the program in six academic quarters.
Data Science Specialization Outcomes
Sample Plan for MSCS – Data Science Specialization
The MSCS with a specialization in software engineering (MSCS-SE) enables you to build the skill set you will need for a fulfilling career in the software industry. You’ll gain hands-on experience across the software development life cycle—from requirements analysis, to architecture and design, to development and testing. The Department of Computer Science has been working with local tech companies for decades, meaning you’ll benefit from close industry connections and a curriculum that is current and relevant to industry needs.
The MSCS-SE program consists of a set of core courses common to all MSCS degrees at Seattle University plus a set of software engineering courses. The program culminates in a capstone project that addresses real-world challenges in the field of software engineering.
The specialization can be completed in six academic quarters if you start in the fall quarter, five academic quarters if you start in the winter quarter and seven academic quarters if you start in spring quarter.
Software Engineering Specialization Outcomes
Sample Plan for MSCS – Software Engineering Specialization
This program is approved by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fall within the definition of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).
If you are an F-1 nonimmigrant student who has completed 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training, receiving a degree in a DHS-approved STEM program means you are eligible for a 24-month OPT extension. To learn more, please speak to a Seattle University international admissions counselor.
Explore the classes you’ll take as a student here.
Seattle University ranks #40 in the nation —U.S. News & World Report, 2023
Have questions about Seattle University’s Master of Science in Computer Science? Attend a one-hour virtual information session to learn more about graduate programs in the College of Science and Engineering, meet a knowledgeable admissions representative, and get answers to your questions about the program, the application process and more.
Our curriculum was developed in collaboration with industry leaders and designed to prepare you with the industry’s most in-demand technical and problem-solving skills, enabling you to distinguish yourself in a fiercely competitive job market. In fact, most MSCS graduates are employed within six months of graduation (2017–2020). Seattle University graduates are employed by Amazon, Microsoft, Google, F5 Networks and other major tech firms in the region.
Projected Job Growth (2022-2032)
According the the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for software developers is expected to grow 25 percent over the next decade.
As a student at Seattle University, you’ll have the opportunity to learn in one of the largest and most culturally diverse independent universities in the Northwest. Our Jesuit values mean we see the world through a global, justice-focused lens. Our strong commitment to diversity and low student-to-faculty ratio help create a forward-thinking, close-knit community where everyone can feel at home—and go on to thrive in a global workforce.
Are you interested in the MSCS program but have no undergraduate computer science coursework? Bridge to the MSCS through the Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate. You’ll get the coursework you need to transition to the full computer science graduate program.
“The CS faculty at Seattle U is truly exceptional, combining deep expertise with a genuine commitment to student engagement and growth. Working closely with some of the best professors at the university, Dr. Shadrokh Samavi and Prof. Timothy Spinney, I witnessed an unwavering dedication to student success and willingness to provide guidance and mentorship. If you’re looking to advance your education in computer science and explore cutting-edge technology stacks, I highly recommend Seattle U.”
MSCS ’23
Professor, Computer Science
Bannan Endowed Chair of Engineering
Adjunct
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Assistant Professor
Ph.D., Computer Science, Oregon State University
Assistant Teaching Professor
MSE, Seattle University
Instructor
MS, Computer Science, Virginia Tech
Capstone Project Coordinator
Professor, Computer Science
Amazon Endowed Chair
Adjunct
Computer Science
Professor
Assistant Professor
Computer Science
Adjunct Professor
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Assistant Teaching Professor
Assistant Professor
Computer Science
Professor and Associate Chair, Computer Science
Professor, Computer Science
Associate Professor, Computer Science
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Associate Teaching Professor, Computer Science
Assistant Teaching Professor
Associate Teaching Professor and Program Director for Robotics Minor
Assistant Teaching Professor
Associate Teaching Professor, Computer Science
Director, Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate Program
Associate Teaching Professor, Computer Science
Instructor
Instructor, Computer Science
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
Professor and Director of MSCS
Ph.D., Computer Science, University of Cincinnati
The Computer Science Fundamentals Certificate prepares you for a new career in the tech industry and is a bridge to the MS in Computer Science program. No prior programming experience is required.
Our graduate degree in data science combines aspects of statistics and computer science with data analysis and modeling. You’ll gain the technical and analytical skills needed to advance your career.
Earn both a BS and MS in computer science in only 5 years. You’ll save time on your advanced degree and enjoy a streamlined graduate application process.
We’re here to help. For information about computer science graduate degrees at Seattle University, contact:
Computer Science Department
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